A year ago, as a step against food waste, the French Parliament voted to fine supermarkets that throw away food products that are still edible or can be converted to feed for animals. The supermarkets were expected to make arrangements to donate the items to charities, says Food Navigator, but “many feel that regulation will remain ineffective until government support is provided across the food chain.”
One study showed that in the province of Isère, “less than 24 percent of total surplus food ended up with partner charities,” said Food Navigator. A report by the European Court of Auditors said grocers could donate as little as 1 percent of the food they discard and be counted as in compliance with the law. The report faulted France for not setting a minimum level of donations.
The group Zerowaste says the French law deserves credit for raising public awareness of food waste as an issue and may be the foundation for further action, said Food Navigator. France was the first country to pass a law to punish supermarkets for food waste. It has a 1988 law that gives a tax break to companies that donate food.